[spice] n [ME, fr. OF espice, fr. LL species spices, fr. L, species, fr. specere to look--more at spy] (13c) 1: any of various aromatic vegetable products (as pepper or nutmeg) used to season or flavor foods
2. a archaic: a small portion, quantity, or admixture: dash b: something that gives zest or relish "variety's the very ~ of life --William Cowper"
3: a pungent or fragrant odor: perfume -- spice.less adj
[2]spice vt spiced ; spic.ing (14c) 1: to season with spices
2: to add zest or relish to "cynicism spiced with humor --J. W. Dawson"--often used with up